What was the significance of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is significant primarily because it marked the official end of the Mexican-American War, which lasted from 1846 to 1848. This treaty was signed on February 2, 1848, and brought about substantial territorial changes in North America. Under its terms, Mexico ceded over half of its territory to the United States, including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. This expansion was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it not only altered the geographical and political landscape but also intensified debates over slavery, manifest destiny, and U.S. expansionism. The treaty played a key role in shaping the future of both nations and had lasting implications on their relationship, as well as on the social and cultural dynamics in the newly acquired territories.